SELF-MEDICATION IN ELDERLY PEOPLE AND ITS RISKS

Abstract

Introduction: Self-medication is a common practice that has been present in all classes, especially the elderly. The functioning of an elderly person's body is different from that of other age groups, so it is common for there to be many emergences of some pathologies. In order to combat symptoms, some elderly people choose to follow the advice of other people who are not in the health field. This action can cause high health risks such as adverse reactions, drug interactions and even contribute to the emergence of other diseases. Objective: To address the consequences of self-medication in the elderly and the positive effect of the pharmaceutical professional in combating the irrational use of medications in the elderly. The Methodology is a review of bibliographic literature of a descriptive narrative nature. The research was carried out between May and June 2024. Results: according to research carried out by other authors, it was found that the elderly who are more likely to self-medicate are those with low income and level of education. The most commonly used self-medication medications are those that require no prescription to relieve muscle pain, inflammation and fever. Conclusion: The use of medication, even if it is over-the-counter, without proper guidance can cause serious harm to health. Therefore, the pharmacist must give the elderly person full attention when dispensing the medication, because due to the pharmacological knowledge that he or she has, he or she can have a positive impact on the elderly person's health, resulting in the reduction of polypharmacy and contributing to the promotion of the rational use of medications.